How do you find a three-bedroom townhouse for rent?

A:

Quick Answer

Search real estate sites such as Rent.com, rentals.com, Homes.com and craigslist for listings of three-bedroom townhomes to rent. An experienced real estate agent is able to narrow down the search and likely has access to unlisted properties, as well, notes Realtors.com. Realtors.com and Homes.com list licensed agents nationwide.

Web searches allow the user to filter results such that he sees only the properties that fit his needs. Rent.com, rentals.com and Homes.com allow filtering by price, amenities, neighborhood and property type. Craigslist is also an option, but research potential landlords thoroughly to avoid rental scams, warns the FBI. These scams generally take the form of illegal subleases or fraudulent real estate agents, notes Realtors.com.

Free newspapers and community newsletters local to the properties sought also often list area rental properties. Sometimes these also have their own Web sites with listings online. Word of mouth is also an effective way to gather information on places to rent, says MarketWatch. Tell friends and family that you're looking. Call property management agencies in the area, and ask if they have properties available. Keep an eye on sale properties that you like. If they sit unsold for a long while, sometimes the owner is willing to consider a rental. Look around appealing neighborhoods for rental signs.